2137: Carmel and Mercedes have a mud fight

It's the usual chaos at the McQueen household as Carmel and Mercedes prepare for their trip. When John Paul complains about his mum smothering him, Katy reminds him how fortunate he his to have his creature comforts. John Paul's soon distracted from his woes when a new face attracts his attention. Summer has arrived and she's determined to make her mark on Hollyoaks. As John Paul embraces his student life, a lonely Myra is left to await his return.

Mercedes and Carmel get a surprise when they discover their spa holiday is actually a survival course. But it's not all bad as Mercedes sets her sights on Army instructor, Vic. Carmel and Mercedes get competitive as they take on the assault course and entertain the troops with a mud fight. Carmel's concerned for her sister but a grateful Mercedes chooses to ignore Carmel's unease as she heads off with Vic. Her close encounter with Vic only proves that she still loves Russ.

Steph's delight at speaking to Baywatch god David Hasselhoff is short-lived when she gets an unexpected soaking. Max's attempts to cheer up a forlorn Steph with a dance-off are a success until she has an epileptic seizure. Touched by his kindness and chivalry, Steph offers Max a peck on the cheek and the spark between them signals that this could be the start of something more.

Amy's fuming to find the devastation after last night's party and it's Ste who's on hand to help tidy up. A desperate Amy begs Ste to hide when Michaela drops by. Michaela makes clear her thoughts on Ste, not realising he's listening to every word. Ste rebukes Amy for not trusting him when he catches her checking the housekeeping kitty and Amy has to stop him from walking out - she likes having him around.